The MV AIDA Perla of Aida Cruises, will make its inaugural call to Dominica on Saturday November 24, 2018. The Vessel will arrive at the Roseau Cruise Ship Berth at 8:00 am and will depart at 6:00 pm. This will be the first of the ships eleven (11) calls to Dominica for the 2018/2019 cruise season.
To Commemorate the event a plaque exchange will be held aboard ship from 10:00 am. Government officials and cruise stakeholders will be present at the ceremony. A series of cultural entertainment is scheduled to be held on the Dame Mary Eugenia Charles Boulevard from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. Entertainment will feature the talents of the Pointe Michel cultural group, Paix Bouche Drummers among others. This will allow cruise passengers to partake in the diverse cultural dances of Dominica.
It is anticipated that the passengers of the MV AIDA Perla will engage in tours to many of the island sites which include Emerald Pool, Trafalgar Falls, Ti Tou Gorge and Mero Beach.
AIDA Perla has overall length of 300 m (984.25 ft.), moulded beam of 37 m (121.39 ft.), and maximum draft of 8.25 m (27.1 ft.). The vessel has deadweight of 9,700 DWT and gross tonnage of 124,500 GRT. The cruise ship has 1643 cabins and capacity for 3286 passengers in double occupancy. AIDA Perla has 16 passenger decks (of 18 total decks), 12 restaurants, 3 snack bars and 14 cafes and bars.
A total of 181 cruise calls are projected for the 2018/2019 cruise season. This translates to a total of 304,031 cruise passengers. The call of AIDA Perla marks the second of nine (9) inaugural cruise calls which Dominica expects for the 2018/2019 cruise season.
DDA solicits the cooperation of all tourism stakeholders in ensuring a welcoming and enjoyable experience for the cruise visitors. The Government of Dominica will continue its effort in promoting Dominica as a desirable cruise destination so as to increase cruise calls to Dominica.